Friday, October 3, 2008

The Many Uses of Theatrical Makeup for Halloween Costumes

By Susan West

While dressing up for Halloween or as other characters such as a clown, theater or stage makeup works wonders. You can change into a sweet princess or a hideous ghoul or anything in between when using theater makeup. Whatever character you want to dress up as, it is even more possible with theater makeup.

Halloween is such as fun holiday, since both children and adults can dress up as anything imaginable. Stage makeup can be used to make a cute little girl look like a fairy, or even a little boy look like the scariest vampire. Stage makeup can be used to create scars or wounds for those dressing up as zombies and goblins, or it can be used to put fake blood on a witch or other magical character. Stage makeup can make the young look old, the old look young, and the prettiest look like an ugly hag. Theater makeup is great to achieve almost any look for Halloween, and it is fun for all ages.

We've all been to a school play or two, and what is cuter than seeing your little "apple," or "banana" trying to remember the choreography to that aggressive 2nd Grade number? Well, without the help of theatrical makeup, the extra details that put it all together would be sorely missed. Stage makeup is an essential for grade schools. How else could Mrs. M make Johnny a convincing Abe Lincoln, complete with wrinkles and top hat? Theatrical makeup can basically make you into whatever you want. It is a valuable teaching tool.

Sometimes theatrical makeup is also called "clown makeup." Basically since the image of a clown immediately conjures a white face with distinctive eyes and mouth. Every day makeup could never duplicate this look, which is why the term "clown makeup" was created. If you visit a costume shop and can't find the makeup you are looking for ask for clown or theatrical makeup. The owner will know exactly what you need.

There are times when theatre makeup is just not enough when you need to create a specific effect. The use of molds or pliable latex can be blended with stage makeup. If Pinocchio only had theatre makeup to create his long nose, we could either be waiting a long time, or an even longer time. In order to create the desired length, which is also seen by the audience, fake latex must be attached. However, a Pinocchio without a long nose is just as unconvincing as a Pinocchio with a peeling nose. After securely attaching the latex nose, simply blend the edges with matching theatrical makeup. Ta-da! Theatre Success!

Once you have stage makeup you'll be surprised how often you really can use it. Fan of any particular sports team? Every wanted to be an "A"? Get out the appropriate color and get to painting! If it's too cold to go shirtless, simply paint your face. What better way to introduce little Johnny and Suzy to the world of athletics, but with a little team spirit?

It is possible to transform any actor into a fantasy character, with the use of theater makeup. Halloween costumes as well as any play or performance of children are enhanced by the use of theater makeup. Stage makeup is frequently used by children entertainers such as mimes or clowns, which offers them the possibility of entertaining others while in disguise. The use of theater, stage and Halloween clown makeup is essential for the holidays and school events and every parent should have some on hand for transforming their beautiful children into an array of enchanting creatures. Edited by Glinda Zuladra - 15275

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